The second public open house for the Grand/Rio Grande road improvement project is scheduled for Tuesday, September 30 from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Montrose High School Cafeteria. The purpose of the open house is to:
· Provide background information about the project
· Obtain public input
· Present project purpose, needs, and goals
· Explain the environmental process
· Present recommended preferred alternative
· Answer questions about the project
· Listen to suggestions and concerns
· Identify how you can get involved
· Present what’s next
The purpose of the Grand/Rio Grande project is to provide an additional, continuous north-south arterial route through the City of Montrose, improving system connectivity and mobility for all users, while relieving traffic congestion along Townsend Avenue.
The first phase of the project began in March with environmental studies and community involvement activities as required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). This process has examined potential impacts on such things as wetlands, wildlife areas, recreational facilities, and home and business owners. The city has contracted with Jacobs Carter Burgess, to complete the NEPA study and design the roadway. Following completion of the NEPA study, the project will move into the final design phase with another public open house to be held in February.
The city has received $4.9 million in federal funding for the project. Matching funds from the city’s 1998 Revenue Bonds bring the total project budget to $6.18 million.